European Markets Open Higher Amid Trade Hopes

European markets experienced a positive start on Friday, buoyed by robust corporate earnings and reports suggesting China might be easing some retaliatory tariffs on US-made chips. This development follows trade discussions between Washington and Beijing, sparking optimism among investors.

Boost from UK Retail Data

Further lifting market sentiment was the better-than-expected UK retail data, with March sales volumes witnessing a 2.6% year-on-year increase. This positive indicator has contributed to the upward momentum in European markets.

Market Performances Highlight

At 9:00 am CET, notable movements included the DAX advancing 0.47%, with Siemens Energy AG leading the charge with a 2.07% increase. The EURO STOXX 50 and French CAC 40 also saw gains, with Safran SA jumping 4.03%. Meanwhile, the British FTSE 100 advanced 0.31%, supported by a 2.09% rise in F&C Investment Trust PLC.

Currency markets reflected the shifting dynamics, with the euro trading 0.41% lower against the US dollar, and the pound losing 0.27% against the greenback.